Programmer

1. SUMMARY

Position Title: CNC Swiss Programmer

Department: Swiss Machining

Reports To: Lead Senior Programmer

Role Summary: The CNC Swiss Programmer is responsible for supporting CNC process optimization and continuous improvement while working closely with Production, Quality, and Engineering to meet safety, quality, delivery, and efficiency objectives. This is a hands-on role requiring regular presence on the production floor.

1. DUTIES AND RESPONSABILITIES
   1. Develop, optimize, and debug CNC programs for Citizen Swiss-type lathes using G-code and/or CAM software (Partmaker).
   2. Translate engineering drawings, GD&T, and specifications into efficient, repeatable machining processes.
   3. Select cutting tools, collets, guide bushings, cutting toolpaths, feeds and speeds to maximize quality, cycle time, and tool life.
   4. First-article setups, job prove-outs, and implementation of engineering changes.
   5. Troubleshoot machining issues including chatter, dimensional instability, surface finish, and tool wear.
   6. Meet or exceed quality, efficiency, and production targets in alignment with OEE standards.
   7. Recommend process improvements to Programming Team to improve cycle time, quality, and overall performance.
   8. Demonstrate on-machine programming expertise and support training and development of machinists and programmers.
   9. Organize CNC programs, tooling, and documentation; create and maintain accurate setup sheets and program headers.
   10. Collaborate with leadership and Quality to improve processes, tooling, fixtures, and overall manufacturing performance.
   11. Set up and operate precision machining equipment as required to support production needs.
   12. Monitor machine operation and screen data to identify and correct minor programming or process issues.
   13. Attend required meetings and comply with all company policies, procedures, and safety standards.
   14. Perform other related duties as assigned.

1. KEY SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND COMPETENCIES
   1. 3-5 years of experience in CNC manufacturing and production machining (preferred).
   2. Strong time management, prioritization, and organizational skills to manage competing priorities effectively.
   3. Proven ability to analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve machining and production issues.
   4. Working knowledge of testing equipment, statistical methods, and control plans.
   5. Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on technical problem-solving ability.
   6. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while ensuring task completion.
   7. Ability to read, interpret, and apply part drawings, GD&T, and internal and customer work instructions.
   8. Knowledge of ISO 13485 and FDA 21 CFR 820 requirements as applicable to manufacturing environments (preferred).
   9. Experience with PartMaker or similar Swiss CAM software preferred; training available for the right candidate.
   10. Ability to adapt to changing priorities, production demands, and fast-paced environments.
   11. Ability to set priorities that drive projects efficiently while meeting quality and customer requirements.

1. EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, AND/OR LICENSES REQUIREMENTS
   1. High school diploma or GED (Required).
   2. Technical college degree or certificate in Machining, Manufacturing Technology, or related field (Preferred).
   3. Relevant CNC, CAM, tooling, or process-development training (Preferred).

1. WORK ENVIRONMENT:
   1. Work is performed primarily in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, industrial noise, cutting fluids, metal chips, and oils.
   2. Frequent interaction with CNC Swiss-type lathes, control panels, and manufacturing software.
   3. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety footwear.
   4. Work may require occasional overtime, off-shift, or weekend hours to support production demands, job launches, or critical issues.
   5. Fast-paced production environment requiring attention to detail, safety, and quality.
   6. Compliance with company safety policies, OSHA guidelines, and quality system requirements at all times.

1. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the production area.
2. Ability to lift, carry, and position tooling, fixtures, and materials within established safety limits.
3. Frequent use of hands for operating machine controls, measuring equipment, keyboards, and hand tools.
4. Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb as required for machine setup, inspection, and troubleshooting.
5. Visual acuity required for reading machine screens, prints, and measuring instruments.
6. Ability to work in close proximity to precision machinery and moving mechanical components.

1. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS:
   1. Safety Glasses: ANSI Z87.1–compliant safety glasses must be worn at all times in manufacturing areas. Side shields are required for prescription glasses.
   2. Safety Footwear: Slip-resistant, oil-resistant footwear required in manufacturing areas in accordance with company safety policy.
   3. Attire that follows Exalta handbook.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.